Dear John,

While states have ramped up COVID-19 vaccination efforts, millions of incarcerated people are being left behind. Nationwide, fewer than 1 in 5 people in state and federal prisons have been vaccinated. And some states haven’t even begun vaccinating people behind bars. 

Tell public officials: Help create healthier, safer communities for all by providing vaccine access to all who are incarcerated and taking other steps to protect people from COVID-19. 

Reflecting on the Derek Chauvin trial for the murder of George Floyd: In this week’s Facebook Live, AFSC’s Twin Cities Healing Justice Program staff share their thoughts on the ongoing trial and their work in Minnesota.

Biden could chart a new path for U.S. on Palestinian rights. Will he?: “As a Quaker, I believe deeply that there is a divine light in every person. As an American Palestinian woman, I believe that we must engage in a lifelong struggle to overcome injustice. I believe that a just and lasting peace, one that brings freedom and security to Palestinians and Israelis alike, is possible,” writes AFSC’s Joyce Ajlouny. (Truthout)

Protecting civil liberties during COVID-19 and beyond: As governments worldwide have attempted to contain the virus, some have imposed dangerous, authoritarian policies that restrict civic space. AFSC’s Under the Mask project offers resources for civil society organizations, peacebuilders, and others standing up for the rights of communities around the world.

Anthony Alvarez, Travon Chadwell, and Adam Toledo should be alive today: After the police killings of three young people of color in Chicago, what will it take for us to finally listen and stand with the Black voices demanding transformative change to truly end the cycles of violence?, asks AFSC’s Debbie Southorn.

How to talk about defunding Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP): It’s time for Congress to stop funding cruelty against immigrants—and instead invest our tax dollars in controlling the pandemic, economic relief, and other vital programs that benefit all of us. To help build support for defunding ICE and CBP, check out our research-based tips to communicate with family, friends, lawmakers, and others.  

Thank you for taking action for a just federal budget!: Thousands of AFSC supporters have contacted Congress, urging members to fund health care and other priorities that meet the real needs of our communities—instead of wasting our taxpayer dollars on war and militarism. If you haven’t already, please take action today.